Testimonials for Tom Burke

Private Coaching, On Set Coaching

"ANY OF MY LA PEOPLE who are trying to be an actor/actress, modeling, or any kind of on screen work, TOM BURKE IS THE MAN FOR THE JOB....trust me, one session with him is like 10 with someone else. You've got my word - CHECK HIM OUT!!!" - Corey Black

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“Tom Burke is an awesome acting coach that I had the great fortune to work with. I can’t thank him enough for his insight and ability to help me find, create, and maintain the perfect character. I don’t know how I could have done justice to the part without his guidance every step of the way. He has been an amazing acting resource that I have already gone back to for help on two additional projects.” - Noel F.

****************************************************************"I have taken the private coaching with Tom Burke to prepare for my headshot session. I cannot say enough about the value of all these courses. If you've ever thought about getting help from someone to prepare for a headshot session, Tom Burke is beyond phenomenal. I just told my friend it was the best money I've ever spent. He knows exactly what he is talking about and got me feeling like I would get the best headshots I've ever taken, and I did!" - Deborah G.

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The environment here is one of professionalism, support, education and fun! I look forward to coming to class every time. Thank you, Keep It Real Acting!"Acting coach Tom Burke will knock your socks off and have you acting better before you know it. He has an uncanny way of getting to the source of what makes each performer themselves through-and-through. Tom has brought so much JOY into my life by reminding me that these characters that we are "playing" live within us. It's already there. We just have to trust him to bring it out in us. Tom, thank you for getting me to the next level. You are truly inspirational!" - Pamela Marie H.

“Tom, What you did within the last two days was just awesome, man! There is nothing more rewarding than seeing a character come to life, and thanks to you my friend, your ability to get into the actor’s head and help him understand how to create such a multi-dimensional reality based character was nothing less than genius. Your gift of understanding actors and how to bring the best out of each one individually is a true gift. Thank you for all you have done.” - Stephan A., Director

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“I continuously go over my notes from my acting sessions with you, and each time I do, I realize again how freakin’ amazing you are. Seriously. I really don't get how you can be able to look at a scene and see everything so clearly. You have helped me approach acting differently, and I now understand my job as an actor. Best part, since working with you, I booked three more feature films. A big big Thank You, Tom Burke!” - Robert K.

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"Having lived in both New York and Los Angeles, I have had my share of acting. Tom Burke is "The Real Deal Coach". His no nonsense and practical approach has helped me gain confidence and in turn land jobs, I am booking more than ever!!! In fact, the skills he taught me have worked for not only for acting gigs, but they have helped me book modeling jobs too. The big bonus here, Mr. Burke not only teaches, he works, so he knows what he’s talking about! I wholeheartedly recommend taking his class as I know I will be enrolled when I'm back in LA! - Clint A.

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“Tom Burke is AWESOME! Not sure how he made me a better actress, but he did. He has this fun and really kind way of making you understand without feeling stupid or overwhelmed. He makes acting seem so easy, so effortless, and yet it’s hard work. I will forever be grateful for the acting knowledge, skills, and confidence he has given me.” - Laura T.

The Castable Actor

"Mr. Tom Burke is the real deal!! Everything we THOUGHT we knew...we DIDN'T! Tom has taken the time to help. He went beyond helping us actually...even went with us to take my daughters new head shots! Walked with her every step of the way! I cannot say enough great things about Tom." - Joy Tamburro

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"After working with Tom Burke on my image and marketability, I met with an agent, and they offered a contract! The head agent was surprised at how well I handled the first interview…something I definitely owe to my conversations with Tom. Thanks to him, I feel so empowered not only as an actor but as a person." - Nick Reilly

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"I really love Tom! He is such a professional and an expert in his field. Loved the seminar. Tom rocks!" - Angella S.

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"I would like to thank you for taking the time to host such a wonderful seminar this past Sunday. I can't even begin to tell you how beneficial the evaluations were for myself. I now have some sort of sense as to how I should transition into a more commercial focused career. Thanks again for all the fabulous information Tom!" -Sarah B.

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“Do you want to get in the door? To that audition? To that agent you want? To that CD you want to meet? This is the workshop to take to make it happen.” -Emily D.

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“$40 for about $1,000,000 worth of information. Seriously! This is stuff you def need to know to get work as an actor.” -Danny A.

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“After taking The Castable Actor, I finally feel like I have direction with my career. I can’t recommend this workshop enough!” -Beth F.

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“Why didn’t anybody tell me this stuff when I first started acting? It’s so important yet so simple. If you’re stuck or lost in your career, Tom Burke is just the guy to get you back on track.” -Ben L.

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"I took Tom Burkes class and it is SO VALUABLE ! He helped me take a look at qualities I have as a person and as an actress and really hone in on them. He helped me become CLEARER and see how best to present my self in an audition. There was so much good in letting go - and great fun in looking forward toward ʺthe next fiveʺ ( years ) as he puts it ! I continue to mull over things we learned about ourselves in his class and it makes me smile- we are all a work in progress!!! Thanks Tom!!" -Julia R.

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"Tom Burke was / is Soooo Informative! Everytime I think I learned an...other thing or two...here come the details that separate a 'Castable' Actor to one that just not booking. Tom is such a delightful teacher...yes handsome too. An invaluable 4 hours! Thanks Tom!" -Larjayne B.

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"I just wanted to thank you for offering The Castable Actor class on Saturday. I got so much out of it, and it was a fascinating exploration of human psychology as well. I didn’t know what to expect, so I was apprehensive at first. I didn’t know if you would be tearing us down in a, shall I say, unpleasant way. But…once the class started I could feel your warmth and passion for helping all of us succeed, and then I really got into the wisdom you were communicating. OK, here’s YOUR type…caring, kind, and supportive." -Edna T.

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"This was a fantastic class! I can't believe how much I got out of it. Tom's insights were spot-on and really gave me some helpful guidance on how to get the most out of not only my headshots, but my entire brand and marketing strategy. I am so much better prepared to go to an audition after just one afternoon with Tom, as I was after six weeks of class at another school. I am such a fan of Tom, and everyone at KIRA. You guys are amazing!" -Jerilyn G.

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"Tom's course was excellent, I really enjoyed it, and learned a lot! Tom was so kind, knowledgable, and he just connected so well with everyone." -Michael P.

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"Class yesterday was UNBELIEVABLY productive. Tom is a beast and extremely knowledgeable, honest and knows what 'works'." -William D.

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"The Castable Actor workshop with Tom Burke was excellent, I greatly appreciated Tom's honesty and care. Tom educates the actor on what their brand is, what they should be going out for auditions on, and really and most importantly, how to manage your career, as it isn't your agents job to brand you. Thank you to tom for the fantastic workshop, and if you get an oppurtunity to take The castable Actor, I highly recommend you do it!" -Michael P.

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"I took Tom Burke's "The Castable Actor" Workshop, and when I say this was a life-changing class, I'm not kidding! This was, more or less, my first acting course, and at the end of the 4 hours, I knew EXACTLY what my "type" and brand were, and what kinds of roles I should be going after. Tom was so honest and funny, and he truly could read every single student. His insight was brilliant and invaluable, and overall I'd recommend this workshop to literally ANYONE. Next up: Judy's "A-Z Commercial Technique" 6-week course, and I can't wait! I truly feel like this is THE acting studio to go to in LA, and I'm so excited for what's to come." -Will M.

"The Castable Actor was a very informative class for me. You filled in my background knowledge about acting and the range selection on age as to when an actor does not fit in a category any longer. I did not realize how there was such a distinction as for the two ladies going out for a young Mother. You were very generous with your time with each one of us in your class. I greatly appreciated it." - Carmen O.

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"I am so glad I was able to attend The Castable Actor last Sunday! Tom Burke's seminar was really great because it taught me how to think about clarifying the images I put forth so that casting directors actually know where I might be of use to them. It's so simple and so logical, but it's nothing we actors were ever taught to do when I was starting out." - Cailin M.

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"I went to Tom Burke's "Castable Actor" workshop. The whole idea is understanding how the industry will see you. "They won't get you until you get you." He teaches you how to be very specific about your type. It's an honest and kind assessment that he walks you through with the class. I highly recommend it, especially if you're planning to go out for commercials. It's all about marketing. The staff who runs the office is awesome too. I've talked to Jessica, Nicole, and Beau- all super helpful." -Adrienne M.

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"Thank you so much for bringing your great energy and wisdom and adding it to the SF Actors Workshop space! I feel so much more confident about myself and owning certain aspects that I really didn’t give much thought to. You guys are a gift to the acting community. You helped me see my own uniqueness more clearly and understood my place in the industry better. I saw the confidence rise with my classmates as well." -Giovannie E.

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"Omg !!! The Tom Burke castable actors workshop has already changed my life! He helped me with identifying my type and marketability ..Tom was very real and hands on with helping me establish my brand ! Im new to Los Angeles area and to this Industry that can be very deceiving !! I highly recommend Judy Kain's School and all of there classes and workshops !! ps .. he's coaching me while i take my headshots in 2weeks :-)" -Denise W.

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"TOM Burke is totally awesome. I liked this so much. It's a must do kind of class. Seriously, it's a deal breaker in your career. Just do it and see what I mean." -Sherlock G.

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"Just wanted to let you know that I booked a commercial (my first) for Starbucks last week. Thanks to your workouts, Tom Burke and his Image class and on site coaching and Kevin McIntyre, my photographer." -Jill M.

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"Thank you for all you do. My session was great& added input from TRUE PROFESSIONALS!" -Angella V.

"Judy & Tom, Thank you for a fantastic weekend workshop at Bay Area Acting Studio! This is sincerely one of the best things I've ever done for my career. Very grateful for you to have taken the time to travel north to teach us. I'm looking forward to visiting KIRA, hopefullly soon, and new headshots!!!" -Andrea E.

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"Probably the best 40 bucks I've spent in a long time....really enjoyed Tom and learned a lot, wow, thank you!" -John B.

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"Tom Burke's Castable Actor workshop is fantastic...honest, candid and hugely insightful to learn how casting sees us, and how to see "yourself" like the camera. If you're getting ready to shoot new headshots or even for the first time, spend the extra $40 to get Tom's advice and feedback." -John B.

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"I cannot say enough positives about Keep It Real Acting! I took Judy's Advanced Call Back Commercial class and followed it up with Tom's Castable Actor workshop! Taking both courses has been invaluable in my acting career, and to summarize it in one word I'd say "prepared" as I now feel so much more prepared in every audition as well as my latest headshot session. At auditions, I am going back to my notes from Judy's class, and for new headshots, I review what I learned with Tom. Plus, my agent loves the new results she's seen from me as a result of Judy & Tom's classes. All good! -Andi R.

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"I am completely new to the game and have taken the "Castable Actor" workshop and am currently enrolled in the AZ Commercial class. Both are amazing! Judy and Tom are so knowledgeable and worth every cent! I really love Keep it Real and would HIGHLY recommend to anyone looking to take a class - they really know what they're doing." -Samantha R.

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"Tom's experience allows him to read any actor as soon as they walk in the door. He was able to tell me things about myself that I barely knew, and what's more, he made me believe that they are worthy and the world needs to see them. Four hours changed my life. Thanks Tom. I can't say enough good things about this school. The teachers are top-notch, the staff is friendly and professional, and the prices are reasonable. There is a reason they are consistently awarded Backstage Readers' Favorites awards. They are AWESOME. Keep up the amazingness, Judy and gang!" -Jerilyn G.

All-In-One Headshots

"The headshots I took with Tom’s help are literally the best I have ever had. I am a regular at Keep It Real Acting so I am an enormous fan of who they are and what they do. I have never had a headshot coach before but if I had known about Tom before this year, I would have summoned him to help me for every headshot session thus far. I had originally requested a coaching session for wardrobe asking if Tom could literally go shopping with me to get the right ensembles. This was an unorthodox request but both him and Keep It Real Acting were happy to oblige. Tom and I went to a bunch of stores and found EXACTLY what I needed. It was absolutely perfect! But more importantly, before we even got the clothes, Tom helped me pin point the different sides of my personality that I could express in my photos. He narrowed it down to the subtle nuances of me. I’m not just talking about quirky faces here. I mean the thoughts in the eyes. The life and energy, which makes whoever is viewing your photos notice you. There is an art to taking headshots. It is, essentially, an acting job, which Tom helped me see. When I brought him along to the actual shoot he helped me stay focused and provided me with feedback on how things were looking. It was a long shoot as well so he also gave me ways to change things up if I got stuck in one place. Having him there was the light at the end of the headshot shoot tunnel. I left the feeling like I had really accomplished what I needed to do. Now, this is all for one photo, or a couple. But I have never had so many to choose from. Never. The results are phenomenal and I am insanely happy with the product of Tom’s help." -Justin S.

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"I Just completed the Headshot A-Z class and it is simply fantastic!! Judy and Tom have developed something so special here that I feel every actor should experience. What impressed me as well was the very genuine and sincere care that all of us received from Judy and Tom in class. I must also say that the value of the class is exceptional considering you also leave with a new headshot. Simply put this class is extraordinary and should not be missed! Thank you, thank you, thank you!" -Scott B.

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Thank you for such a wonderful, informational afternoon about HEADSHOTS.

A class like this has been needed in LA for such a long time. I wish I had, had this information before I did my headshots. My idea was to get a popping color, grandmother wardrobe and look my best and smile. Boy, I didn't realize, you have to put thought, preparation and hard work into pulling off great HEADSHOTS that will get you noticed. Plus at the time, there was no place to go to find out any information or learn what I needed to know before investing in Headshots. I was so green after being gone for so long.

Your class is very important because HEADSHOTS are the link to meeting CASTING DIRECTORS and getting AUDITIONS. You have to stay ahead of the "herd" You want the CASTING DIRECTOR to take a second look at you and not pass you by. Your class will give actors that have your information, a leading edge.

You had a brilliant idea and it will pay off for all involved. I would tell any actor that the best investment in their career, is their HEADSHOT. That will be your stepping stone to a rewarding career, (Also, be sure to keep taking acting classes and workout classes.) You have to keep in the know.

Thanks again for helping actors in LA to be the best they can be and having a place to go for all their needs.- Carleen F.

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"New headshots have been picked out! Just waiting for the final touches before I throw them up onto casting networks and share them! I'm so thankful for Judy Kain and Paul Hungerford (Keep It Real Acting) for introducing me to Tom Burke (thecastableactor.com), without whom NONE of these shots would have been possible! And who introduced me to the wonderful Kevin McIntyre (kevinmcphotograph.com) who captured 5 completely different looks that I know will put me ahead of the game!" -Stephani Z.

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"Was looking for a new acting class for my daughter and Heard about keep it real on Backstage West thought we would give it a try so we did the freebie Friday awesome, and from their took the headshot class STOP the best headshot we have taken to date. Kevin McIntyre,Tom Burke, and Judy Kain have put together a valuable class teaching the actor about branding themselves while coaching them through the detailed steps of getting a great head shot, That's exactly what we got a great headshot and the knowledge behind getting a great shot every time.Thank guys, She will now be taking the advance call back class can't wait so happy we found this place we now class home." -C.V.

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"Had the opportunity to work with these guys with their Headshot class & I have to say as a working actor I learned so much about taking headshots. How did I go this long with out knowing all these amazing tips! Thank you to Tom Burke, Judy Kain and Kevin McIntyre for an amazing class and great headshots!! Two thumbs up!!" -B.R.

"Not only do you learn from Judy and Tom how to get your best characters and looks out of a headshot session, you were able to apply that knowledge with an amazing photographer. I got amazing shots that I am able to put up on my acting websites and feel great about. Keep It Real gives you the real world, acting business experience you need to feel confident with yourself when going into an audition room and beyond. I am so grateful to have landed here. I believe all skill levels will find a class that will benefit them greatly." - Jessica V.

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"I have only tested the waters at Keep It Real Acting with the All-In-One Headshot Class but I will say I'm a fan. The workshop was pretty direct with having each actor specify their particular type and essence. This way, when it was time to take headshots we were prepared. Tom's coaching definitely enhanced my session enabling me to stay focused and concentrate on my goal. The best part was when I later followed up with Judy & Tom. I was a little weary that I wasn't portraying my desired looks. Each of them took time out of their busy days to go through the pictures and tell me which one worked best. They also provided amazing feedback of my strengths and what I need to work on moving forward. THANK YOU to both Judy & Tom. I cannot wait to see where these headshots will take me." - Caitlen N.

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"I spent so much money on photographers, clothes, hair and makeup, and got nothing in return. Then I worked with headshot coach Tom Burke and learned the steps to getting a great picture. An agent who I had been sending my picture to for years, finally called me in. He said there was something so intriguing about my headshot that he had to meet me in person… I signed with his agency! Thanks to Tom Burke, not only did I get an agent, but those pictures have gotten me more auditions than ever before." - Angela R.

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"I used to think that all I had to do was get my clothes together and show up, and I wondered why I wasn’t getting much response from my headshots. Working with Tom Burke taught me how to put in the work that is needed to get a great shot. Using his techniques gave me control of the shoot and the outcome. I learned how to get pix that represent the true me as an actor." - Bob A.

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"I just wanted to drop you a quick line to thank you for coming up to the S.F. Bay Area and sharing your skills with us on Saturday. I found it to be VERY helpful to me. I hope we meet again!" -Greg S.

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"The Headshot Class was an unbelievable deal complete with generous suggestions, geniune support and top-notch photos! The tools and tips for taking charge in front of the camera will be useful for many, many years to come. As a result of all the combined efforts, the headshots make the connection we were seeking. That connection revealed the most amazingly artful, animated, and fresh photos!" -Valencia M.

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"We got great shots from this class, and from a Mom's perspective, the price is hard to beat!" -Ellie T.

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"I so appreciate your insight, candor, care, and advice in teaching me (and others) how to show the best possible me. Your guidance, for me, stretches beyond acting; I said it at the workshop, and I've thought a lot about how the lessons you impart can also enrich my every day, continually spotlighting my moments with a bright smile, and beaming the best me that I can beam. I was just regaling to a friend yesterday my good fortune uncovering such positive resources as yourself, Ms. Kain, Mr. McIntyre, and other students who continue to teach me that the best Gabriel is always going to be good enough, whether I book the job or not. Insofar as Hollywood, I've heard a lot about the negative, and so it gives me great hope and pleasure to know and share my experiences with all of you which have been so very uplifting. Many, many thanks to you." -Gabriel G.

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"Thank you for your personal care and support yesterday! You both are genuine and loving souls. I appreciate you very much! Can't wait to see the pics!" -Susan M.

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"I just got my headshot proofs back today and OH. MY. GOD. They're so amazing!!! I couldn't have done it without your coaching! I swear on everything I love that these shots truly captured who I am as a person. You brought the best out of me, and I was kind of skeptical about if it would read on camera... But seriously, these are the best headshot of myself I have ever seen. I don't care if that sounds conceited. In all honesty though, you have really helped me discover my branding as an actor. I've always had the hardest time trying to "fit" myself in to all these different looks or characters, but you really brought out the most unique thing about me. AND I LOVE IT. I am so infatuated with what you've helped me discover about myself! It's given me so much confidence already. I can't thank you enough. You are the freakin' best. I don't know how many more times I can say "thank you," but really... Thank you." -Jack H.

Not Just a Pretty Face

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"I thoroughly enjoyed this day long acting class. I took the Not Just Pretty Faces Class and learned a ton of special and unique techniques to become quicker on my feet and more alert in the room in general. You will learn how to make the audition "your audition" and how to take control of your own time. Judy and Tom really teach you to find out who you are and how to play up that naturalness that is inside each of us! You leave wondering "why didn't I think of that before," but that is the point of the class!!!! There are always little tricks out there that you can only learn by taking a class with people who are not only trained professionals but WORKING actors! Thanks Judy and Tom!!" -Tyler K.

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"Just wanted to drop you a note to say thank you again.Just booked an NDA commercial using my new headshots. A direct booking- demo reel and headshot. So we obviously picked the right ones." -Phil T.

I really enjoyed the class and feel like I truly benefited from it! I look forward to more classes in the future! -Lucas M.

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The session with Judy and Tom yesterday was great. Learned so much. Thanks again. -Gail G.

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"I took the Not Just A Pretty Face class. I had a great time at this class and acquired some great information. It was a small group of girls, some brand new to the industry, some new from other states, and some with some commercial experience. I have been getting so many callbacks, almost booking, and just barely miss the booking. Granted i was never super serious at acting, I've solely been a model w some random/chance commercial jobs. But I've realized, why not take this great opportunity of living in LA to at least try to book something and make some money. My friend told me about this class, and we took it. So with the great tips and some SERIOUS insight from two people who have so much experience and knowledge, I expect to book some big jobs this year :) thanks guys!!" - Drew G

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"Thank you so much Tom and Judy for such a great experience. I had a great time and learned some amazing key points that I used in a casting I had today :)" -Troy C

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"I took the "Not Just a Pretty Face" commercial class and I loved it! Judy and Tom really help you through the transition between modeling and acting. Even though I had a few commercials under my belt, I felt that I still needed some training... And thank goodness I got it from them. Rather than taking a series of commercial classes geared toward all actors, this class is great because they KNOW the differences between the modeling world and the acting world. They know how models act, what they think, what they tend to do, and how casting directors and other actors perceive them. So important! However, they hit essential points on auditioning that all actors should know in general. Judy and Tom are knowledgable, personable, and straight forward. They tell you what you need to hear and ask you questions so that you can ask yourself, "why did I just do that? What emotion am I trying to convey?" Then they work with you so that you can create options for yourself. They are not there to bash on you. They are there to help you. And when they talk to you during the class, you can tell. Thank you both" -Tamara E.